tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22836393478820399562024-03-13T15:25:14.334-05:00The Last Word'Cause Curvy Girls Have The Last Word.Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-8470666019535344782016-07-13T10:40:00.000-05:002016-07-13T10:40:38.474-05:00Trying To Matter<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; line-height: normal;">I was really feeling myself as a black woman. Not that I hadn't before, but I was feeling all black and excellent, even feeling my black ass braids too (</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; line-height: normal;"><i><b style="text-decoration: underline;">if you call them boxer braids I swear to ALL of the Gods...)</b>.</i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; line-height: normal;"> Plus, social media is fun and all of those #MelaninPoppin posts were also helping a BIH feel fly AF. I was duck walking all around this town! I <i>was </i>until a huge part of America decided to let me know that my life means nothing.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> Ouch, right? Try waking up with that loud and deafening realization for months. Try waking up with that </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: '"arial"', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">realization </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">during the intense days of last week in what feels like the Civil Rights Movement (</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Remix</i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">). **</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">To my friends that do not fall into the persons of color category- let me let you know right now that you and your presence in my life are in no way excluded nor carry any negative connotations. I love you long time. It's just that...to the masses, your lives matter. In this blog post, I'm talking about my own and expressing what I think are some viewpoints of people who look, talk and act like me. No shade. I encourage you to keep reading. </span></span></span><br />
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I think the most frustrating thing about the Black Lives Matter slogan is that it's so damn catchy. Am I right? </div>
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These three words are so to the point and real and it just validates who we are as a community, unifying us across the globe. </div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">And *that* pisses people the fuck off. </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">It would almost be hysterical if we weren't being executed for it. </span><i style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I say "executed" for a reason. Look up the definition and you'll see why</i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">. The other thing? IT MAKES SO MUCH SENSE. Black Lives Matter quite literally means that I matter. My husbandmotherfathersisterbroth</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">erfriends and ancestors matter <u>BECAUSE WE HAVE NOT ALWAYS MATTERED</u>. We only graduated from 3/5 of a person to 5/5 of a person 151 years ago. We just want to hold onto that feeling, nawmean? Another thing that is balls to the walls f'annoying? Some people try to miss the point of BLM so fucking much that they argue with ME using MLK quotes. <b>KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE</b></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Individuals who use that historical rhetoric</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> are arguing for peace and a non violent approach to this shit we've found ourselves in and that is the foundation of the Black Lives Matter movement. We want to peacefully coexist and yearn for a world</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> that there's value to our essence and what we bring to the table as a culture. We are not a terrorist group. We aren't even a group! We're just black!</span></span></div>
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I'll address another touchy point here too. I've seen the meme floating around that says "if you haven't checked on your black friends then you have no black friends." As funny as that is, it's not always true. Why? I have a plethora of friends who would rather not even rock the boat on where we decide to go for happy hour drinks. Why now, should I expect them to step outside of character to rock the boat with their own networks and stand up for the cause? I'm not saying that I'm not worth it or that you aren't worth it, but if your friendship <i>is</i> worth it, let this simmer. You know your friends better than anyone so don't let this segregationist agenda ruin a great friendship. While it does sting to see some friends reaching out more than others, do you know how awkward it is for a white person to call or text and say "I saw black people dying on TV so are you okay?!" </div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Feel free to disagree but that's an awkward ass conversation.</span></div>
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Lastly, I saw a Facebook friend post this the other day but I am guilty of it too. Tempers are flying and we are all pissed. Proofreading is your friend! Do you know how dumb we look misspelling and using terrible grammar?! I'm sure I've used it in this post! LOL! You know people are living on phones these days so as soon as that post notification comes through and before you get to hit "edit" on Facebook, your shit is being read.</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">It's usually fine...until now. I think Facebook arguments are mostly dumb but I know there's the one asshole you have to respond to. I know, I've responded to two so far! But here is where we let the education shine. Whatever amount of education you have has enabled you to know how to spell and decent knowledge of punctuation. You can send a read an hour late but it'll still be a read. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I'll try to take my own advice. </span></div>
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I intentionally made this post lighthearted. The fact is I've rewritten it five times over while sobbing and knowing that people are truly dying over the color of their skin. In 2016. You can say what you want about African American citizens being raised to hate or distrust the police and I can comprehend the argument. The hate from "the boys in blue", however, is not unsubstantiated or undocumented. It's so bad in <i>this</i> millennium that a woman went live on Facebook while the father of her child died next to her. She recorded in an effort to achieve some semblance of justice. Can you imagine that for yourselves? That a social network sharing feature is your only option in the world to save your life with your baby in the backseat? I've cried. I've cried for all of us because this is not something I ever expected to see in my lifetime as much as I believed we were a progressive nation and the current temperature of society has all but shattered that. I don't know what I tell my future children and that is a valid argument because I will have children sooner than I see than social justice. And I don't know what we tell each other to hold each other up throughout these excruciating times. Maybe we can try saying this: <b>Black Lives Matter.</b> </div>
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Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-71512203212692679392015-09-17T14:18:00.000-05:002015-09-17T14:18:51.350-05:00Goodbye Greys, We're On Speaking Terms Shonda<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">So I'm a lot embarrassed to be writing this now. I am by no means a super, super fan of Grey's. Can I answer a buzz feed quiz on the chronological catastrophes in the history of the show? Can I triangulate the love triangles of the core characters? Can I match myself with 3 of the main personalities on the show? TOTES. A bus ran over George (007). Shooting. Plane crash. Derek dies. Also in order of least to most tears I've shed in a finale. And I'm most like Arizona because I'm passionate and cry when I can't express myself with words. Am I a fan who's posted on blogs and forums of my distaste? Hell no. But my closest friends know, and my husband knows, how hard it was for me to say goodbye to my last beloved character on a show I have loved since I was 17 years old. That fact helped me realize, that Shonda doesn't write for me anymore.</span><br />
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<br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I remember being 17 years old and it was just after prom I think? That the season 2 two part finale had aired that night </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">on ABC. Just after Desperate Housewives became a hit and the first African American female writer on a major network TV show began to break records. I shared my fandom for her on this blog <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/search/label/Shonda%20Rhimes">before</a>. My mom taped over (we didn't have TiVo at the time. Rude, mom) the first half of the Denny - Izzy love story. I hunted on the early stages of YouTube for hours on senior ditch day to find it and at the end of what would have been my last senior year,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> I found it in 6 parts online. Watched the whole thing, curled up on the couch and watched the last half live that </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">on ABC, with even more record breaking fans and sobbed my eyes out. Didn't sob like that again until my 9 years of Grey's devotion kicked in, and I watched the untimely death of Derek Shepherd this past year at 2am</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> after supporting a good friend at her breakout Second City show (We now have the millennial version of TiVo).</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I will never forget this day-- SJ you are hilarious and I really appreciate the Bernie and your fab improv. But I was super embarrassed after watching this particular finale.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> For starters,<strike> let's talk about the fucking irony that a neurosurgeon died of a brain injury from a lower ranked goddamn trauma hospital!</strike> I'm moving through the anger still. I had 2 group texts going about how this can't be real. Shonda, (yes, <b>Shonda</b>. She lost my respect this summer so we are on a first name basis.) can't kill off 1/2 of the duo I might have loved the most since my younger years of wanting to believe in a fairy tale produced by Disney. My now husband came into the living room PISSED because I was sobbing, in his words, "like my mom died" over Dr. Derek Shepherd. That's when I knew, this is just TV.</span><br />
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<br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">It's crazy because this love story Shonda Rhimes created I really appreciated. It was very real and very flawed which was really cute in a "not everyone is price charming" way.This was my showwwwww. Freshman through senior year of college this was the thing we watched after essays, before pregamming and before fake ID/real ID Thirsty Thursdays. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Grey's was a ritual! And then when my husband walked in the room, I thought through all my piles of Kleenex to myself--- <b><i>BIIIHHH, are you serious?!</i></b> Don't get me wrong. The Shonda hate still lives in my veins through Snapchat and group texts. I even hate watched one of the finales last night trying to get back into my show, texted friends an awful screenshot (sorry Krissy and Jessica) and I still couldn't love it. Because I am supremely happy. This random love story I loved is toast compared to what I live now every day. Sorry Keith, you're my<i> *insert whatever phrase is better than McDreamy</i> <i>here* </i>so this show goes back to the fiction it's intended to be and for all the newbies who have no idea the emotional roller coaster this show is. Strap. In.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I'm at peace with the fact that I can let go of whatever this show turns out to be, its characters, and the way I used to run home Thursday</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> nights at 8pm</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">. (Sidenote: literally everyone is busy at 7pm CST.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> Shonda said IDFWU to Grey's, unlike the way she used to. You TEW brand new, boo.) I digress.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">I can say bye to Grey's now and good luck to everyone who still watches it. I'm no longer in the gripping age group of fans who die for this now dead love story. I got my own to write.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Xoxo</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">PS this poster is rude.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">PPS I also signed the </span><a href="http://change.org/" rel="noreferrer" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">change.org</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> petition to bring Derek back. Whatever. I was grieving.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo cred: Giphy.com, TVLine.com</span></span>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-59911589158049131842015-01-23T12:09:00.000-06:002015-01-23T13:18:01.590-06:00I Did Something Kind of Crazy #AssataDesigns<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I love fashion. I love creating fashion. Looking at trends, prints, patterns and working with textiles is kind of my thing. It's the project that gets my blood pumping and also something that gives me creative purpose.</div>
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So.....</div>
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I opened an Etsy store! Introducing "Assata Designs". You can read my post <b><a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/06/these-collars-aint-no-choke.html">here</a></b> and <b><a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/04/shopaholic-not-so-anonymous.html">here</a> </b>behind the meaning of Assata Designs and who Assata is (<u>spoiler alert:</u> I get it from my mama).</div>
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You can visit the shop <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/AssataDesigns">here</a></b> and right now I'm exclusively focusing on accessories for Men, Women and Baby. I wanted to share this with you all because I am <i>finally</i> ready to do this. </div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Note:</i> The Etsy store is debuting, and like me, it will evolve over time. A full bottle of Shiraz was a fuel for this project so be gentle with your thoughts.</div>
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And since I turned 27 use code "<b>ASSATA</b>" to get 27% of your very first order. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/AssataDesigns">Assata Designs Shop</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/assatadesigns">Assata Designs Facebook</a></div>
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Enjoy! </div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-12626483404580660202014-12-31T15:19:00.002-06:002014-12-31T15:21:13.776-06:00Am I Too Old To Go Out?<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.7272720336914px;">
It’s a weird complex I have since it's New Years Eve, and I’m 19 days away from my 27<sup>th</sup> birthday.</div>
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I go out on special occasions like Holiday Parties (hello, open bar) or my own birthday. But <s>in the last 2 years </s>lately I feel like I am far too elderly to enjoy a night out.</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.7272720336914px;">Here are the thoughts that go through my head:</span></div>
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1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>What do I wear?</div>
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a.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>It’s important to note that I haven’t purchased anything from Forever 21 in the last year so I don’t even know where to shop for club clothes.</div>
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2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>Who do I go with? Does anyone go out to these..”bars”? Anymore?</div>
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3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>What time should I be ready? Am I the first or last person at the club?</div>
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4.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>What should we drink? I have to be drunk to do this soooo shots.</div>
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5.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>Should I wear a real coat? It’s cold outside!</div>
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6.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>Is the music going to be too loud?</div>
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7.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>Shit. I have to pay for my own drinks now that I’m engaged.</div>
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8.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>(<i><b>while at the club</b></i>) Can we go yet?</div>
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9.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span>How far away are we from Taco Burrito King…</div>
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In any case, I hope all of you going out tonight wear some real clothes and remember the ball drop for 2015!</div>
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I'll be at home in my dress like....</div>
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Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-52791194177963238552014-01-10T12:23:00.001-06:002014-01-10T13:17:06.095-06:00Sway's Not The Only One Without The Answers <div class="MsoNormal" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
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I took an unintended break from blogging just to figure out….every single thing! I decided when I hit my quarter life century mark, that I would follow wherever 25 would take me. Whatever obstacles or miracles, I would face them and grow from them and decide who I wanted to be afterwards. Sounds great, right?</div>
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So I’m almost 26 and I have a better idea of characteristically where I’d like to go, but I don’t have this great plan for my life like I thought I magically would 364 days later. As a planner and someone who’s <strike>somewhat</strike> anal retentive about the dumbest things, my idea for this year is to just not have a plan. At all. It sounds similar to last year, but I mean not plan at all. Not a dinner. Not a super bowl party. Not Friday - Sunday. Nothing. I don’t know how I’m going to achieve this because I even plan what time I’d like to be in bed, but like bed time, life never pans out exactly the way I see it. (Seriously, Family Guy comes on from 10 – 11:30pm. Who can sleep?)<o:p></o:p></div>
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But I do have <b>goals</b>! And forgive me for this next part. After the latest <b>Beyonce</b> album dropped, I am in full stan mode so most of these goals are filled with <b>Beyonce</b> gifs. Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"><i>Dance: </i></b><span style="text-align: center;">I really like it! And I find myself trying to stop dancing on the CTA every day. No promises that I’ll look like a pro, but fun is fun.</span></div>
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<b><i>EAT: </i></b>I’m never going to forsake fast food. Not ever. I’m just not going to eat it everyday or twice on the weekends. Drunk food doesn’t count.<br />
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<b><i>Simple: </i></b>Not as in “simple b*tch”, honey; simple in getting to the bottom line. We beat around the bush so much in avoidance, but the faster you get to the punch line, the faster you can take action to solve and address whatever it is you’re facing.</div>
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That’s all I got! 26 is going to be a <b>sassy</b> year.<span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image Sources: <a href="http://rapgenius.com/Devon-culbert-devil-is-a-lie-remix-lyrics#note-2582461">Rap Genius</a>, <a href="http://beyoncegifs.tumblr.com/">Beyonce Gifs</a>,</span> <a href="http://spaceburgersfromspace.tumblr.com/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Space Burgers</span></a></div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-32246325782122082862013-09-10T13:34:00.000-05:002013-09-10T13:36:37.211-05:00Making An Autumn Bucket List<div style="text-align: left;">
Although it may not feel like Autumn to us Chicagoans (seriously with this 90 + degree weather), Fall is definitely upon us.</div>
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With all the Fashion Week buzz and prep for the school year, it seems that Fall is the start of anew. What better way to embrace the cold than with some things to look forward to on a bucket list!</div>
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Below are some goals that I think will make a transformative season for me, and hopefully you all can apply them to your season or put a spin on them! Here we go:<b> </b></div>
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<b>Make At Least 5 Recipes From Cookbook </b></div>
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I bought this amazing cookbook as a suggestion from a friend and have tagged basically every page. They have everything from 'Grown Up Grilled Cheese' to 'Bomb Breakfast Wraps'. The best part? They're ALL good for you! I just have to actually make these dishes instead of stopping at the Dollar Menu...</div>
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<b>Be EXCELLENT At Work</b></div>
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Seems kind of redundant, but making real goals for yourself at work takes away from the cycle of getting up, going to sit at a desk, going home to sleep and repeat. It makes work exciting and you get to push yourself to achieve extraordinary goals. The bonus? You might actually get a bonus (or a raise) at the gig.</div>
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<b>Make At Least 4 Fall Staple Fashions</b></div>
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I keep putting off sewing because of all the things I can buy from a store that rhymes with 'smorever funny one' on my way home. Lazy, right? My goal is to make what I see in the window everyday and put a spin on it! Also, sewing 101 isn't as hard as it looks! I've learned a lot of cool tips on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcbdx6KzTB8">YouTube</a>.<b> </b></div>
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<b>Keep Trying New Forms Of Exercise </b></div>
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I'm in a <a href="http://chicago-wickerpark.barmethod.com/">Bar Method</a> mood as of late, but I've tried running, Bikram Yoga, NTC classes, sculpt and toning at Core Power and more. It's all about finding something to keep your attention and getting you excited to move.</div>
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I'm sure my list will get longer as the season passes, but what are some of yours? Share with me in the comments and remember to make attainable goals for yourselves. Once you get in the habit of crossing items off your list, I'm sure you'll feel unstoppable and want to conquer more. ;)</div>
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Until next time!</div>
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<i>-TLW</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: <a href="http://www.ecampus.com/new-abs-diet-cookbook-hundreds-delicious/bk/9781605293141">E-Campus</a>, <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/glennllopis/2011/11/14/5-reasons-that-hard-work-isnt-enough-to-win-in-your-work/">Bar Method, Forbes.com</a>, <a href="http://www.fandsfabrics.com/">F And S Fabrics</a></span> </div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-11141383926031729242013-08-23T11:59:00.000-05:002013-08-23T12:01:50.332-05:00I'm Going To Blog About Random, Good Sh*t<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This post is a love note from me, to you.<br />
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I have started almost every post this year with, "so I haven't blogged in a while...". It's not because I've run out of ideas, or because I don't find a passion in writing for my fellow Curvy women. I still do! I've just found like most things, I've evolved a bit, and the scope of this blog is not <i>just </i>the spot for all things #Curvy (although we will still be celebrating that here).</div>
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I've also found that the reason I started this blog, to celebrate our Curves that make us feels good, is not the only thing that makes me feel good. I want to blog about those other things, too!</div>
<div>
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<div>
Some content will still be fashion related (hello, I have 2 closets; full of clothes and full of shoes) but some will be thoughts still relevant, and hopefully helpful, too!</div>
<div>
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Thank you for being patient and I hope you stick with me through this new transition. You will not be sorry ;)</div>
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Xo</div>
<div>
Arianna at <b>The Last Word </b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ox6e82-ywdA/UheUkPeHIcI/AAAAAAAABIM/TXBWH6SKRgM/s1600/photo(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ox6e82-ywdA/UheUkPeHIcI/AAAAAAAABIM/TXBWH6SKRgM/s400/photo(3).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-25722086911907487962013-06-06T11:45:00.001-05:002013-06-06T11:49:21.071-05:00Happy Anniversary, SATC! 5 Things To Remember In Real Life<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I have been toying with the idea of writing
a blog post for a while that separates the ideals of TV from real life. As a TV
junkie myself I was sorely disappointed that a multitude of Alanis Morissette
songs didn’t score the most important parts of my life, or the fact that my
High School did <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> have
cheerleaders! (No really, I’m quite coordinated. I would have been an awesome
Cheerleader…5,6,7,8!) But as we celebrate one of the most influential female
empowerment movements of the millennium in Sex And The City, I thought I would
take this opportunity to capitalize on how we as women can take things away
from the show, but still be sure to live in our own reality.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do Not Wait For 'Big’</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYhAvy8Tcmk/UbC5LzG-sSI/AAAAAAAABFk/giPr2JTFAPg/s1600/48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYhAvy8Tcmk/UbC5LzG-sSI/AAAAAAAABFk/giPr2JTFAPg/s320/48.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We don’t need a Cosmo quiz to tell us that
we all have an inner Carrie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We do! We’re
all lovers and nurturers, and all want the fairy tale ending. We deserve it,
right? What we don’t deserve the is the unwillingness of a guy to choose you and love
you the way that you should be loved. Also, Carrie was 'the other woman'. We don’t
deserve to hurt or be hurt by fellow women. SMH, Carrie!</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Do Not Go Broke For Shoes</b></span></div>
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Ever. This one is self explanatory. She had impeccable taste
and I’m still in love with that Newsprint dress. But your friends aren’t going
to wait for you if you can’t afford to go out or take shots with them.
Fantasize about the shoes, heck take a picture and frame the shoes! But don’t
sob over a cup of Ramen while wearing those shoes, because you can’t afford to
do much else.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Always Be There For The Friends That Deserve It</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kkU98A188Ow/UbC4qUvCzAI/AAAAAAAABFc/hVLQ_tyahLE/s1600/sarah_jessica_parker3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kkU98A188Ow/UbC4qUvCzAI/AAAAAAAABFc/hVLQ_tyahLE/s320/sarah_jessica_parker3.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.thoughtcatalog.com/">Thought Catalog</a> is one of my favorite introspective websites
and they always have articles about how being in your 20’s and 30’s what kind
of friends you have and how you should deal with them if/when you grow apart.
The truth is, friendships aren’t any harder at 25 than they are at 5. If your
friend shares her Juice Box and Fruit Snacks with you, share yours. If not,
still smile and be polite and keep those tasty treats for yourself. Be loyal
and honest with the friend that shares, and keep that going for as long as it’s
good to you! (<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Note: </b>Juice Box and
Fruit Snacks turn into Wine and Pizza when you’re older and start to deal with
life, so save accordingly).</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Always Choose Yourself Over Smith Jared</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OfaKMW3yJY/UbC38lJ0EGI/AAAAAAAABFQ/GujCGP_j2ug/s1600/sam1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OfaKMW3yJY/UbC38lJ0EGI/AAAAAAAABFQ/GujCGP_j2ug/s320/sam1.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: magenta;"></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h7ov6xc0lvM/UbC38qhVAkI/AAAAAAAABFM/ffK4uDrMQO4/s1600/sam2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h7ov6xc0lvM/UbC38qhVAkI/AAAAAAAABFM/ffK4uDrMQO4/s320/sam2.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: magenta;"></span></div>
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So, Smith Jared was hot and his body looked like Adonis! And
he stayed with Samantha through Cancer. Awww! And then he moved to California with
Samantha she “said his name more times in a day” than her own. That was a
beautiful love story! But eventually Samantha was losing herself and became
unhappy. Don’t be with anyone or do anything that makes you unhappy. You’re
much better than that.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Silly: Always Pay The Rent And Don’t Abandon
That Closet</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/X8B_tUcS_iQ/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/X8B_tUcS_iQ&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/X8B_tUcS_iQ&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></span></div>
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This was the most frustrating part of that
whole movie. Big built you that closet, proposed to you in that closet and you
still couldn’t close and get the house in time?! Ugh. In real life: your house
is your fortress and nothing is worth not keeping it up and not paying <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">on time.</i> For things of value, pay any
and everything on time! And don’t walk away from apartment sized closets…..</div>
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In short, for SATC and all the amazing shows that portray the better & bitter parts of life, take what you can and live your own way! </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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-TLW</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Media Credit: AnyClip.com, YouTube.com, MovieSpoiler.com, GiseleInTheCity.Blogspot.com</i></span>, <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>AmBetterToday.Blogspot.Com</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Edit<span style="font-size: small;">or's Note:</span></b><span style="font-size: small;"> Thank you <span style="font-size: small;">to my lovely friend Maggie Oldm<span style="font-size: small;">ixon for the blog make<span style="font-size: small;">over! She writes<span style="font-size: small;">, too, and you can read <span style="font-size: small;">her<span style="font-size: small;"> drool-worthy <span style="font-size: small;">posts <a href="http://msmagdelinemarie.blogspot.com/">here</a>. :)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><i> </i></div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-64545925179768530242013-05-08T13:01:00.001-05:002013-05-08T13:07:36.605-05:00Mini Haul: Beyoncé as Mrs. Carter in H+M<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: start;">So, I know..it's another Beyoncé post. But I can't help it! Beyoncé is a </span><b style="text-align: start;">machine: </b></div>
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Now, onto the goods. Mrs. Carter recently became the poster child for the new H&M Summer Collection. I was a little skeptical at first, I must admit. We now live in a fashion world where true Couture is lost in the midst of Celebrity endorsement, but I have to give it to H&M on this one!</div>
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It's a perfect summer set for us C<i>urvy Girls</i>. Not only are the pieces modestly priced, the silhouettes are <b>very </b>generous when it comes to the sizing. In plain text, there's enough room for boobs and some junk in the trunk in this assortment! I even got a size <b>SMALL </b>in my purchase from today!</div>
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The collection is filled with much more than we see Beyoncé in, standing under the sun (see what I did there?). From a color palette of Neutrals to Prints, and Staples from Shorts to Rompers and Dresses, there is such a stand out variety. </div>
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My only advice for this: <i>choose your accessories <u>wisely.</u> </i>Mrs. Carter is everywhere these days and everyone will no doubt be adding these pieces to their closet. Think of how you can add your own personal spunk, and add some color. It is summer after all!</div>
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Below are some of pics of her collection and possibly a piece I've added to mine. Happy Shopping!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ncsfdSq95Bg/UYqQO_LT9EI/AAAAAAAABCA/dd0rpeNdlgk/s1600/bey1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ncsfdSq95Bg/UYqQO_LT9EI/AAAAAAAABCA/dd0rpeNdlgk/s320/bey1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YaEp--fB1_k/UYqQPf2zeWI/AAAAAAAABCQ/km3g3hbdVx0/s1600/w_19_130507_612x373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YaEp--fB1_k/UYqQPf2zeWI/AAAAAAAABCQ/km3g3hbdVx0/s320/w_19_130507_612x373.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>BONUS: Bey is even on the Shopping Bags</b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ovCe_sgJATE/UYqRGqE5XDI/AAAAAAAABCs/VGKmK6tTfwY/s1600/beyonce+bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ovCe_sgJATE/UYqRGqE5XDI/AAAAAAAABCs/VGKmK6tTfwY/s320/beyonce+bag.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/aMok-RBgj1I?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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Until next time, </div>
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-TLW</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: <a href="http://www.hm.com/">H & M Online</a></span></div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-65103651530772086132013-02-18T13:06:00.000-06:002013-02-18T13:10:01.738-06:00So You're Going To See Beyoncé...Now What?<div>
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Editor's Note: Parts of this post were written prior to the debut of Mrs. Knowles-Carter's fantabulous documentary, which I am sure has upped the ante for you music lovers.</span></i><br />
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Now that tickets have gone on sale to the general public and you've<strike> asked your cousin, best friend, girl you know from college for the hook up</strike> bought them through Live Nation or Ticketmaster, I'm sure you are all doing the 'Single Ladies' wave in prep for The Mrs. Carter Show!</div>
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<b><u>Short story:</u></b> I don't think Beyonce's website was prepared for the amount of traffic/people who wanted tickets a few weeks ago. Her site was shut down for 40 minutes and at 10:05, the tickets were sold OUT. I looked like this at my desk: </div>
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<b>BUT THEN </b> after watching the 'sold out' sign hovering next to the Chicago show, I refreshed the page (x100) and magically 4 tickets became on sale in one of the best sections.... and I got them!! I was all:</div>
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And of course my next question was..<b>what am I going to wear?! </b>This isn't just a concert. By the title of this concert tour, her show stopping promotion of a woman we all wish was our BFF in "Life Is But A Dream", you can tell Beyoncé did not come to play so neither should you. Below are my top suggestions for you to show up and show out at the Mrs. Carter Show:<br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Lam</span></i></b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>é</i></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span">Lamé is a knit fabric that usually is produced in gold and silver metallic tones. It's stiffer and outlines your shape, attracting light in flattering places. In "</span>Lamé -ns" terms, it's shiny and makes you look more sophisticated than the average twentysomething-clubgoer. <span class="Apple-style-span">Sequins are out, Lamé is where it's at.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8nP063t2pps/USJwcCBwyoI/AAAAAAAABAE/keV-iSA3htA/s1600/lame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8nP063t2pps/USJwcCBwyoI/AAAAAAAABAE/keV-iSA3htA/s400/lame.jpg" width="380" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.montaignemarket.com/EN_8697__Pants_Anthony-Vaccarello_Anthony-Vaccarello-gold-tone-lam%C3%A9-pants.html">Anthony Vaccarello Gold Tone Pants</a>,<a href="http://blackmilkclothing.com/products/egypt-leggings"> Egypt Leggings</a>,<a href="http://www.1stdibs.com/fashion/clothing/1930s-metallic-lame-silk-striped-blouse/id-v_18857/"> Lame Silk Striped Blouse</a>, <a href="http://www.witchery.com.au/her/tops/lame-tee-1?color=GOLD">Witchery Lame Tee</a>, <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/194307?cm_mmc=LinkshareUS-_-Hy3bqNL2jtQ-_-Custom-_-LinkBuilder&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-HqXeKqPxm1Pgs94Q4uKtRw">Vionnet Wrap Top </a></span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Heels</span></i></b></div>
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I know; going to a concert means you'll be standing most of the time, but this is unfortunately a burden we carry as women. Heels are a <b>must.</b> No Flip Flops, no Flats, no cute Gladiator Sandals. NO! Come as the best version of yourself to this affair, and if you need tips on how to make your shoes comfy before wear, click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15aJq2mO57w">here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A741nkOWW2c/USJ1SYvf2MI/AAAAAAAABAQ/1ncYhucu8YY/s1600/shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A741nkOWW2c/USJ1SYvf2MI/AAAAAAAABAQ/1ncYhucu8YY/s400/shoes.jpg" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theiconic.com.au/Miss-Maze-89081.html">Miss Maze Peep Toe,</a> <a href="http://howcool.com/product/ellie-shoes/EL-609-EDGY?listing_page=2&cPath=1821">Ellie Lace Up Stiletto</a>,<a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/shoe-gallery/boots/iron-fist-lip-and-heart-print-platform-boots_261068901?extcam=AFF_AFW_Linking+via+Landing+Pages_Polyvore"> Iron Fist lip and Hear Boots </a>, <a href="http://us.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33060&storeId=13052&productId=8109335&langId=-1&categoryId=&parent_category_rn=&searchTerm=55A43CNUD&resultCount=1&geoip=home">TopShop Lace Wing Boots</a>, <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/shoes-heels/mapmaking-your-move-wedge?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google-Shopping_Womens-Shoe%7CPump&utm_content=42117"> Jeffery Campbell Mapmaking Boots</a>, <a href="http://www.riverisland.com/">River Island Cage Bootie</a></td></tr>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Hair</span></i></b><br />
Try a style you've never tried before. The pros: it's a dark concert and the only photo's you'll have are the ones you take before you go. The rest will be of 'Crazy In Love' or your favorite Bey performance.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s5kGUN2mt_U/USJ3cE0a6_I/AAAAAAAABAY/nWl7k9bAGoE/s1600/hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s5kGUN2mt_U/USJ3cE0a6_I/AAAAAAAABAY/nWl7k9bAGoE/s400/hair.jpg" width="370" /></a><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Color</span></i></b></div>
Stand out-- it's a concert after all, and regardless of when this tour hits your city, be a walking Pop Of Color!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SkUOpEvXTvY/USJ389fqgwI/AAAAAAAABAg/FBK7s3tNieg/s1600/Google+Image+Result+for+http___acupofchic.com_wp-content_uploads_2012_06_shape-dynamic.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SkUOpEvXTvY/USJ389fqgwI/AAAAAAAABAg/FBK7s3tNieg/s400/Google+Image+Result+for+http___acupofchic.com_wp-content_uploads_2012_06_shape-dynamic.jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hope to see all my fellow Chicagoans at the July 17th show! You can look for the girl wearing all of the above, and working it out in the United Center seats:<br />
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Happy Monday!</div>
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-TLW</div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">BellaSugar, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">Gorgeous Hair, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">Fashion Bomb Daily, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">African American Wedding Hair ,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">Princess Hairstyles, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">A Cup of Chic</span></span></i></div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-10194730426253531092012-12-31T11:04:00.003-06:002013-02-06T17:00:19.783-06:00Never Forget The Old When You're Ringing In The New
Happy (Almost) New Year! Aren't you excited the world didn't end?<br />
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While we are all busy making <b>NYE resolutions</b>, and vowing to never do some things again, I think it's important to take time to realize all the things that have helped bring you to yet another New Years Eve day. There's a journey every year and even the bad, the horrible times you went through, are the reason you're making new decisions right <i>now.</i><br />
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So! With that being said, below are the 12 things that I am promising to bring into my New Year. Some are fashion related, some are not. I hope they help you with your revelations and resolutions in being a better you in 2013:<br />
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<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Remember</span>- </b>All those bad things that happened to you this year, they happened and guess what? They're not the worst things that will ever happen to you. Again, the things of this year are <u><b>NOT</b></u> worst things that will ever happen to you. The worst thing, would be to not have an opportunity to try and do better and since the Mayans were wrong about the world ending, you have a chance in 2013 to do better because you now know better. </li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Party Nails</span>- </b>There's something fun about not matching and making a fashion statement with arguably your smallest accessory, and this trend won't cost you an arm and a leg ;) <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LnJYLfzWMOk/UOHAV2CjdAI/AAAAAAAAA88/UhHV5wB5RHE/s1600/219339444322731826_AaJl4mlx.jpeg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LnJYLfzWMOk/UOHAV2CjdAI/AAAAAAAAA88/UhHV5wB5RHE/s400/219339444322731826_AaJl4mlx.jpeg.png" width="400" /></a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">OWN IT</span> - </b>Something so simple that has stuck with me ever since I've heard it! YOU are the only person who can do what YOU do, so do it! Unfortunately this goes for both good and bad things, but if you have the balls to say or do something bold then you better take credit for it. </li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Peplum</span> - </b>It's frilly and compliments all shapes! It's moved from skirts to jackets, pants, shorts, and dresses. Peplum is the new LBD. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2gMYHt8GRfk/UOHAvsWartI/AAAAAAAAA9E/GR-JQCPyCLw/s1600/PEPLUM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="353" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2gMYHt8GRfk/UOHAvsWartI/AAAAAAAAA9E/GR-JQCPyCLw/s400/PEPLUM.jpg" width="400" /></a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Just Keep Swimming </span></b>- Dorie had some wise words from 'Finding Nemo' but it's true. Also similar to #3, you cannot do anything but move forward in life. When an obstacle does come into your life, time doesn't stop and you can't either. In time, you may find the answer on how to conquer your problem anyway!</li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>High, High Heels</b></span> - you saw the return of the platform this year right? You either go High or go Low, and I for one, am not a fan of the Kitten Heel. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VTPmlFj5sXU/UOHBQBR9vsI/AAAAAAAAA9M/7wwau8xBxog/s1600/Christian-Louboutin-Daffodile-Platform-Pumps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VTPmlFj5sXU/UOHBQBR9vsI/AAAAAAAAA9M/7wwau8xBxog/s320/Christian-Louboutin-Daffodile-Platform-Pumps.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta; font-weight: bold;">Believe in a Higher Power</span><span class="Apple-style-span">- I respect all Religions and Spiritual Beliefs in the world, but the one thing that truly helped me this year was the understanding that there is a Power greater than myself guiding me with the will to accomplish some pretty hefty goals I set for myself in 2012.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: blue;">Sequins - </b>No explanation needed. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-byM4AgK9Ih4/UOHCtPq81AI/AAAAAAAAA94/AnPN14DGCG0/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-byM4AgK9Ih4/UOHCtPq81AI/AAAAAAAAA94/AnPN14DGCG0/s320/image.jpeg" style="cursor: move;" width="208" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sW8mHwkFlMY/UOHCttOWMdI/AAAAAAAAA-A/Nz0F2PRLNrA/s1600/image1xl-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sW8mHwkFlMY/UOHCttOWMdI/AAAAAAAAA-A/Nz0F2PRLNrA/s320/image1xl-1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="250" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtdzE1Qeu-o/UOHC6A-ykYI/AAAAAAAAA-I/myrXOMfZdbA/s1600/image1xl.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtdzE1Qeu-o/UOHC6A-ykYI/AAAAAAAAA-I/myrXOMfZdbA/s320/image1xl.jpg.png" style="cursor: move;" width="117" /></a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">GO TO THE GYM </span>- </b>No really. You know all the talk: "your metabolism slows down when you get older blah blah blah", and all that might be true. But I feel better when I know I did something healthy for myself (I also feel better that I went for a run while eating a LARGE #1 from McDonalds). Just do it, the hour will go faster than you think.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>Wedge Kicks </b></span>- Let's just all embrace the fact the we live in the new age 80s, and pumped up kicks are here to stay. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s1eWAOsxSiQ/UOHDSxW_kQI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/9EVlbfhthRQ/s1600/Google+Image+Result+for+http___cdn.styleblazer.com_wp-content_uploads_2012_02_ART-wedge-sneakers-pw.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s1eWAOsxSiQ/UOHDSxW_kQI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/9EVlbfhthRQ/s320/Google+Image+Result+for+http___cdn.styleblazer.com_wp-content_uploads_2012_02_ART-wedge-sneakers-pw.jpg.png" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: magenta;">Value Your Friends & Family - </b>I don't know what I would do without the awesome support and honesty of all my loved ones, and I think you guys can say the same for yours. </li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>Collars</b></span> - Peter Pan was onto something, and I'm especially happy since I make them <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/06/these-collars-aint-no-choke.html">myself</a>! Besides, looking dapper never hurt anyone.</li>
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and one more for good luck:</div>
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Obviously <u><b>Number 13</b> </u> would be my Curves, and yours! It has been an amazing year for me on this blog, and it's because of all of you! I am so glad to write and have readers like you that love to read so thank you for being loyal visitors, and embrace your curves in the New Year because they're apart of <i>you.</i></div>
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Have a glass of bubbly tonight, and I'll see you in 2013 ;)</div>
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-TLW</div>
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Photo Credit: Pinterest, <a href="http://evolutionvtg.blogspot.com/2012/03/pretty-peplums.html">Evolution Revolution </a>, Christian Louboutin, ASOS, Style Blazer, SodaHead, Castle Blog</div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-12079649266617092722012-12-13T12:18:00.001-06:002012-12-13T12:24:05.779-06:00If You Love Scandal, Here's Why<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I'm happy for many reasons this Thursday, mainly because it's Scandal Thursday and Shonda Rhimes OWNS the night. Plus, the Scandal writers and ABC PR are geniuses because I really have no words.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Seriously!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">If you follow me on Twitter you know I live <a href="http://twitter.com/AriannaAKG">tweet</a> the CRAP out of this show; but there's a reason. Her name is <a href="http://twitter.com/shondarhimes">Shonda Rhimes</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The OWN Network just did a <a href="http://www.oprah.com/own-oprahs-next-chapter/Oprahs-Next-Chapter-Kerry-Washington-and-Shonda-Rhimes">Next Chapter</a> on the entire Scandal Show and Ms. Rhimes herself, but here are the main reasons I love her:</span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><b>She was born in Chicago, IL (whoop whoop!)</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><b>She was named one of Time Magazines "People Who Help Shape The World" in 2007</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><b>She's the first Female & African American writer to have 4 highly rated primetime shows on a major television network (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grey%27s_Anatomy">Grey's Anatomy</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_Practice_(TV_series)">Private Practice</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Off_the_Map_(TV_series)">Off The Map</a>, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scandal_(TV_series)">Scandal</a>) </b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><b>She's also one of the first Female & African American television creators to cast a fellow African American Female in a leading role on network television; a role that has not been in filled in over 30 years.</b></span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">If you don't feel inspired after reading that, then I don't know what to tell you. Break down those walls, Shonda.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">As a viewer, I feel personally connected to her eloquent writing because all the scenarios (minus the shooter in the hospital, surviving a plane crash, or erasing all the evidence of a crime at Pope & Assoc), are pretty mirrored to everyday life. She creates these<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> humanized symbols of anguish, happy, sad, struggle and determination through her casting, and the magic we see as fans on tv absolutely starts with the words on her pages. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">I don't know at all what it's like to create a tv show with the world watching, talking, and reacting. I do know that I embrace her all her ideas, regardless of the untimely deaths of my favorite characters. On top of that, Shonda writes for the fans. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Every tweet, Facebook post, any opinion of the, Shonda reads and bases a handful of her story lines around them. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><b><i>Editor's note:</i></b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I realize this isn't a fashion post in the least, but it <i>is</i> a post about a woman with a vision and the tools to make sh*t happen. I think that's something that we can all embrace. So with all that being said, watch Scandal tonight and live tweet it since she's reading! Let her know you support her craft.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">-TLW!</span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: GetClue.com, UPI.com</span></i>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-11364339661210371502012-11-07T10:09:00.000-06:002012-11-07T10:09:27.189-06:00Signed, Sealed, Delivered: He's Ours<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;"><i>Spoiler Alert: Barack Hussein Obama II</i></span></div>
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<i>"We are not as divided as our politics suggest" - The Nation's 44th President</i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><u>*Please Note: This post was written at 11:39 AM on November 6, 2012; that's how much faith I had in our nation and President Obama.</u></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>As an African American, Citizen of the United States of America, a Woman, a resident of Hyde Park, and a 24 year old, I couldn't be more proud of our President and the effect he's had on a generation of Millennials who want their opinion to matter. Take that Grandma's/Grandpa's of the world: we may be spoiled with technology, but we sure know how to <b><u><span style="font-size: large;">vote</span></u></b>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">This year I was more tight lipped about my choice for President and all the conversations surrounding the election. Not because I was embarrassed of my love for the President (isn't he dreamy?), but my choice is my own and not up for debate or criticism with anyone who disagrees with me. I'm also not on the bandwagon to hate anyone who voted for Mitt Romney. That's stupid; it's not my place to judge you or think anything less of you because your educational or economic background is different than my own.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">I'm not here to get too political, fact check the debates and statements by either candidates, or address the "Celebrity President" we've come to know for the last 4 years. Although I will say, the man is a genius. If it weren't for his media tour on Jay Leno, The View, The Ryan Seacrest Show, 106 & Park and more, I don't think very many 18+ year olds would feel a connection to The Obama's, and truthfully his desire to appeal to my crowd makes me even prouder to be a young American. I'm here for </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">my neighbor,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"> a man, a father, a leader who genuinely cares about the progression of a nation [regardless of color], an advocate for health care and coverage for those with preexisting health conditions, the 'crazy' idea that Women have the right to choose what goes on inside their own bodies, and the idea that the LGBT community has the right to love and be loved in the world. I'm here for President Obama, our leader of the Free World.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Thank you, Mr. President, for bringing me back to blogging.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">If you are as elated as I am at the outcome of the election, feel free to show your pride with the memorabilia below. Erika Pena, I will get these earrings as soon as you make more!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t6u1FeabChU/UJlSeHVnJcI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/OUyDbsEahPk/s1600/DOE+Barack+Yo+Body+Tee+-+Urban+Outfitters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t6u1FeabChU/UJlSeHVnJcI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/OUyDbsEahPk/s320/DOE+Barack+Yo+Body+Tee+-+Urban+Outfitters.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="216" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=25716457&parentid=SEARCH+RESULTS"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Doe Barack Yo Body Tee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywRWsIyk4s8/UJlSfQwx9LI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/YH1JKpCoNwc/s1600/FUN+Artists+Obama+Pop+Art+Tee+-+Urban+Outfitters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywRWsIyk4s8/UJlSfQwx9LI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/YH1JKpCoNwc/s320/FUN+Artists+Obama+Pop+Art+Tee+-+Urban+Outfitters.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="212" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=25934514&parentid=SEARCH+RESULTS"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">FUN Artists Obama Pop Art Tee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--JU7be14PB8/UJlSgIp4CvI/AAAAAAAAA4g/bDdn7K2_3E4/s1600/Victory+Kneel+Obama+Tee+-+Urban+Outfitters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--JU7be14PB8/UJlSgIp4CvI/AAAAAAAAA4g/bDdn7K2_3E4/s320/Victory+Kneel+Obama+Tee+-+Urban+Outfitters.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="208" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=24844664&parentid=SEARCH+RESULTS"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Victory Kneel Obama Tee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi91YAughAE/UJlSg0GVgUI/AAAAAAAAA4o/qxRbJV1GdEk/s1600/ht_obama_earrings_beyonce_121029_wg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi91YAughAE/UJlSg0GVgUI/AAAAAAAAA4o/qxRbJV1GdEk/s320/ht_obama_earrings_beyonce_121029_wg.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.erikapenashop.com/obama-collection/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Obama Earrings by Erika Pena</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R67XAcyZNRI/UJlSiGfTvyI/AAAAAAAAA4w/UDQ_uDDN-Pg/s1600/Obama+Outline+White_Front+-+Obama+2012+-+Skreened+T-shirts,+Organic+Shirts,+Hoodies,+Kids+Tees,+Babyic+Shirts,+Hoodies,+Novelty+Gifts,+Kids+Apparel,+Baby+One-Pieces+%7C+Skreened+-+Ethical+Custom+Apparel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R67XAcyZNRI/UJlSiGfTvyI/AAAAAAAAA4w/UDQ_uDDN-Pg/s320/Obama+Outline+White_Front+-+Obama+2012+-+Skreened+T-shirts,+Organic+Shirts,+Hoodies,+Kids+Tees,+Babyic+Shirts,+Hoodies,+Novelty+Gifts,+Kids+Apparel,+Baby+One-Pieces+%7C+Skreened+-+Ethical+Custom+Apparel.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="269" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://skreened.com/obama2012/obama-outline-white-front"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Obama Outline Tee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7OeUWhB8HME/UJlTnbP_w6I/AAAAAAAAA44/9074EjiYQ5M/s1600/il_fullxfull.387883873_81q9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7OeUWhB8HME/UJlTnbP_w6I/AAAAAAAAA44/9074EjiYQ5M/s320/il_fullxfull.387883873_81q9.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+obama-forward+t-shirts"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Obama Forward Tee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qSUad7GHLo/UJlTw7ItYEI/AAAAAAAAA5A/aLPi8u8DU0s/s1600/obama_hope_over_division_grey_light_tshirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qSUad7GHLo/UJlTw7ItYEI/AAAAAAAAA5A/aLPi8u8DU0s/s320/obama_hope_over_division_grey_light_tshirt.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cafepress.com/mf/32778937/obama-hope-over-division-grey_tshirt"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Hope Over Division Tee</span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Last but not least...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">-TLW</span></div>
Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-22853669405917450662012-09-27T11:11:00.000-05:002012-09-27T11:20:44.482-05:00Fall Uniform: The Lightweight Jacket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b id="internal-source-marker_0.5646113930270076" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s an odd time of year; we know Summer has left the building, but it’s not time to break out the Parkas </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">yet.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> For us commuters we can’t freeze our you-know-whats off on the bus stop, and I am not a fan of sweating on a packed train car. So what am I supposed to wear? Enter: The Lightweight Jacket. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--yo3HMa-xbQ/UGRexHl7xVI/AAAAAAAAA1k/uiZFUDowJsY/s1600/puma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--yo3HMa-xbQ/UGRexHl7xVI/AAAAAAAAA1k/uiZFUDowJsY/s1600/puma.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Thanks, Puma!</span></td></tr>
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<b id="internal-source-marker_0.5646113930270076" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></b>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b id="internal-source-marker_0.5646113930270076" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">It's sleek, easy to pack away if the temperature spikes, and in most cases this thing is water repellent. However, the Lightweight Jacket is a cautionary tale because: its</b> name gives it away! This piece light, and more of a Fashion statement. I only <strike>scream </strike>say this because you cannot wear a tank top or a mini skirt and expect a warm, cozy feeling. Dress appropriately folks!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As always, here are my tips on styling the Jacket:</span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ignore the color and go with your gut. I generally use this rule for shopping overall, but since this piece of Outerwear isn't designed to go with your outfits, avoid buying something that accommodates your entire wardrobe. It will be frustrating to do so, and you might miss out on a great find.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Drawstrings and Belts are key! Unfortunately, all Outerwear adds unnecessary bulk but that doesn't mean you have to loose your <b>shape</b>. You can pick Outerwear with drawstrings or a belt to battle the budge, or you can add one from your own closet! Like this:</span></li>
</ul>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xs66VcYxjo/UGRyjAMQ74I/AAAAAAAAA2I/izL203Kxebs/s1600/belt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xs66VcYxjo/UGRyjAMQ74I/AAAAAAAAA2I/izL203Kxebs/s1600/belt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xs66VcYxjo/UGRyjAMQ74I/AAAAAAAAA2I/izL203Kxebs/s200/belt.jpg" width="166" /></a></span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My favorite length of Outerwear is above or below the hip. Like I said, the jacket adds the wrong kind of poof, and it's easy to get lost in a large piece of Nylon or other Lightweight fabrics. Jackets that hit above the hipbone highlight your hips, and below accentuates the natural curve from your waistline down. Either way you go, these lengths are pluses for us Curvy girls. ;)</span></li>
</ul>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Last but not least, the transition from this season to Winter is a short one and your coats shouldn't break the bank. Below are my picks for Lightweight Jackets all <b>under $100</b>. Let me know what you think & check out a new feature on the blog, "Curvy News":</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.target.com/p/merona-quilted-jacket-assorted-colors/-/A-14063238">Merona® Quilted Jacket </a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/womens/jacketsblazers/PRD~1218307/ELLE+FauxLeather+Jacket.jsp">ELLE™ Faux-Leather Jacket</a></td></tr>
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<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>In Other Curvy News...</i></span></h2>
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<ul>
<li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"We're surrounded by absolutely unrealistic ideas of beauty because girls in photos are, well, not real. They're the result of a hairstylist, a makeup artist, a manicurist, a personal stylist, a tailor, good lighting, correct angles....And to get that one photo that makes the cut, sometimes a thousand or more need to be taken. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">So, look at pictures of celebrities for artistic inspiration ... <u>but don't think for a second that you should look like them</u>. Because nobody does, not even them." Love who </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline !important; float: none; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><b style="font-style: italic;">you</b> are!</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> *Lauren Conrad from her new book 'Beauty' </span></i><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><b>Via</b></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ShesInColor">She's In Color</a></span></span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lady Gaga joins the Body Revolution! <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The pop superstar says: "My boyfriend prefers me curvier. <u>When I eat I am healthy and not so worried about my looks, I'm happy. Happier than I've ever been</u>." She was born this way! <b>Via</b> <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2208712/Lady-Gaga-hits-weight-critics--showing-figure-candid-underwear-shots-blog.html" style="font-weight: normal;">Daily Mail</a> & <a href="http://www.twitter.com/AlexandraMariaE" style="font-weight: normal;">@AlexandaMariaE</a></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thanks for visiting :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Until next time, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>-TLW</b></span></div>
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<br />Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-942456109225874502012-09-18T12:04:00.001-05:002012-09-18T12:08:53.098-05:00Christina Aguilera & Her Curvlosophy<br />
.....And we're back ;) Now let's get to business:<br />
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Recently at the 2012 ALMA Awards, the controversial Grammy winner & The Voice coach, Ms. Christina Aguilera, put her backside forward in a rather form fitting frock:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ott9AoKij_4/UFimGEkOEQI/AAAAAAAAAzc/m5mvt-Lfei0/s1600/o-CHRISTINA-AGUILERA-570.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ott9AoKij_4/UFimGEkOEQI/AAAAAAAAAzc/m5mvt-Lfei0/s400/o-CHRISTINA-AGUILERA-570.jpeg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>If you got it, flaunt it!</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ArmV_tCu9Kg/UFimq_d2nOI/AAAAAAAAAzs/o_vVkdmgYeo/s1600/o-CHRISTINA-AGUILERA-570+(1).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ArmV_tCu9Kg/UFimq_d2nOI/AAAAAAAAAzs/o_vVkdmgYeo/s400/o-CHRISTINA-AGUILERA-570+(1).jpeg" width="260" /></a></span></td></tr>
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According to the <b>Huff Post</b>:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
The "Voice" star and singer poured herself into a skin-tight black <b>Michael Kors</b> slit gown at Sunday night's NCLR <b>ALMA awards</b>, a ceremony held to honor Latino newsmakers. Her <b>curves</b>, which she's been showing off in a LOT of sexy black frocks lately, reminded us of <strike>Kim Kardashian</strike> another famous figure-flaunter.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
Aguilera, 31, also showed off a pair of Louboutins, Neil Lane jewelry and her new ombre hair, pulling her purple and pink-dipped locks into a low ponytail to receive her NCLR Special Achievement Award.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Century, Times, serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 21px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
Is this the start of a fresh new look for the singer? After all, Aguilera's cover for her new "Your Body" single oozed sex appeal, with Aguilera appearing nearly nude save for some pink gauze. And maybe it's about time: <b>"The challenge I’ve always had is being too thin," Aguilera recently told<em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-style: italic !important; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"> Lucky </em>magazine, "so I love that now I have a booty, and obviously I love showing my cleavage...” </b></div>
</blockquote>
...And boy does she ever:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AGGNU9IR8wU/UFinc66ggTI/AAAAAAAAAz0/rrTCXJjCnQY/s1600/o-CHRISTINA-AGUILERA-YOUR-BODY-570.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AGGNU9IR8wU/UFinc66ggTI/AAAAAAAAAz0/rrTCXJjCnQY/s400/o-CHRISTINA-AGUILERA-YOUR-BODY-570.jpeg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still from "F*ck Your Body" Music Video</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>We've talked about her before, Curvy girls. I know Christina Aguilera gets a lot of heat for her weight and wardrobe choices, but do you agree with her Curvlosophy?</i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Huffington Post</span></div>
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Let me know what you think & check out the teaser from her new single below!<br />
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<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>In Other Curvy News:</i></span></h2>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Adele is reportedly in talks to partner up with Burberry on a plus-size collection, </span></i><a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/news/2012/09/18/adele-burberry-plus-size-collection---records-james-bond-skyfall-theme-music" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; -webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.1s; -webkit-transition-property: border-bottom; -webkit-transition-timing-function: ease-in; background-color: white; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #2881b3; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0.08em; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">reports British <em style="font-style: italic;">Vogue</em></a><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">. [<a href="http://nymag.com/thecut/2012/09/rumor-adele-to-do-plus-size-line-for-burberry.html">NY Mag Online</a>] </span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Melissa McCarthy is "getting closer" to launching her Plus Size clothing line </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://popstyle.ew.com/2012/09/18/melissa-mccarthy-on-her-plus-size-clothing-line-were-getting-closer/">Popstyle</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">]</span></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>-TLW</i></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
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Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-59196065204768544212012-08-23T11:29:00.000-05:002012-08-23T11:29:23.577-05:00You're Beautiful -- It's True!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9niGbTLwFaI/UDY-xwsJ7XI/AAAAAAAAAy8/vr0j6miix_U/s1600/528039_10151131405151812_1035796939_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9niGbTLwFaI/UDY-xwsJ7XI/AAAAAAAAAy8/vr0j6miix_U/s400/528039_10151131405151812_1035796939_n.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Just thought you should know. ;)<br />
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Happy Thursday!<br />
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-TLWAriannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-31846424539273305562012-08-14T11:59:00.000-05:002012-08-14T12:02:24.313-05:00We Curvy Girls Hold Sage Wisdom...In Our Hips!Can you believe the title? Neither can I! This is no hoax, Curvy Nation, this little known fact is true. According to the <a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/11/13/earlyshow/health/main3493928.shtml">CBS News Report</a>,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">As </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">CBS News correspondent Susan McGinnis</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> reported on </span><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The Early Show</i><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> Tuesday, the study shows women with fuller, </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><b>"hourglass"</b></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> figures seem to be smarter, and give birth to brighter children.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The research, published this week in the journal "Evolution and Human Behavior," indicates </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><b>hips don't lie</b></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">. In effect, says the study of some 16,000 women,</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">the smaller your waist and bigger your hips, the smarter you are.</span></span></i></blockquote>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MuQ8-dWNU6I/UCqDimNZb0I/AAAAAAAAAyc/9vAZ61xBXg4/s1600/hourglass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MuQ8-dWNU6I/UCqDimNZb0I/AAAAAAAAAyc/9vAZ61xBXg4/s400/hourglass.jpg" width="147" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Say What!</td></tr>
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<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">And, McGinnis points out, there's a formula: Divide waist circumference by hip circumference. The lower the result, the better.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">For instance, notes McGinnis, Jennifer Lopez's waist measures 26 inches, her hips, 39 -- for a waist-to-hip ratio of .66. The less curvy Keira Knightley's waist is 25 inches, and her hips, 33, for a ratio of .76.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The researchers say it has to do with omega-3 fatty acids, which gather around fuller hips and thighs, and are important for the growth of the brain during pregnancy. The curvier the hips, the higher the level of omega-3s.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">It may also explain other studies that show men prefer women with a low waist-to-hip ratio.</span><br />
<br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #fefefe; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Not only that but, according to the research, women with smaller waists and larger hips live longer!</span></blockquote>
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If all of this isn't a reason to celebrate Curvyness, then I don't know what is! What's even better about this tidbit of information Ladies, you can always win a battle of wits with your significant other, because you can't argue with science! ;-)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/DUT5rEU6pqM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Happy Tuesday!<br />
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-TLW<br />
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Photo Credit:<a href="http://rollingviews.co.in/2010/06/know-dresses-thats-suits-on-your-body.html#axzz23XayDr00"> Rolling Views </a>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-2422261353791685482012-07-25T10:37:00.000-05:002012-07-25T10:37:25.985-05:00I Support All Things Curvy!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The headline says it all if you didn't get that message from my blog before ;)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Today I stumbled upon <strike>the Kardashian's </strike>Sears new campaign for the Kardashian Kollection, which this time is all about <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">you</span>.</i> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Kourtney, Khloe, and The Future Mrs. West are rolling out with a plus size Denim extension of their brand at Sears. To commemorate the launch they are asking you to strut your stuff and be the face of the campaign to be featured in the full line Ads (which is actually pretty cool).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Details here: </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Of9dR2-x4c/UBARA-rG2lI/AAAAAAAAAyA/vuyq-pJSfPc/s1600/kar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Of9dR2-x4c/UBARA-rG2lI/AAAAAAAAAyA/vuyq-pJSfPc/s400/kar.jpg" width="366" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NLEsmTQyKvQ/UBARNmmX-_I/AAAAAAAAAyQ/ipZw_HzTn6Y/s1600/kar2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NLEsmTQyKvQ/UBARNmmX-_I/AAAAAAAAAyQ/ipZw_HzTn6Y/s320/kar2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The winner will receive:</span></div>
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<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #333333; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Round trip coach air transportation for one (1) to Los Angeles</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">One (1) night lodging in LA</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">A professional photo shoot for Kardashian Kurves</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">A photograph from the shoot will appear in an advertisement for the Kardashian Kurves denim line</span></li>
</ul>
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To enter click the<a href="http://www.celebuzz.com/2012-07-23/win-a-chance-to-be-part-of-the-kardashian-kollections-new-ad-campaign-exclusive-contest/"> really hard to find big blue link</a> at the bottom of the page and let me know if you win! I would love to see my Curvy nation represented in a stylish campaign, exclusively at Sears. ;)</div>
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-TLW</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Celebuzz.com</span></div>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-27694499126742670222012-07-10T13:25:00.002-05:002012-07-10T13:25:29.852-05:00A Curvy Girl Takeover: Wedding Season!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">One of my readers (</span><a href="http://twitter.com/boogieBAP">Brittany</a><span style="background-color: white;">) came to me with a request I couldn't turn down. Like the title says it's Wedding season and whether you are a Bridesmaid or guest, you will need a formal frock to dress for the occasion. Brittany asked: </span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-color: white;">I'm going to a wedding and I need your help finding a dress! I'm 5'10 and my measurements are 32-27-39, so I have to be cautious that I'm not showing too much skin. </span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">I'm not a fan of high necks because I'd like to look modest up top. Something flowy but fitted, i</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">n pinks, teals, yellows, and corals. Summer colors.</span></span></blockquote>
First of all Ms. Brittany: you go girl! This isn't a problem, this curvature is a girls dream (as are all our Curves, but I digress)! You have come to the right place. Like most formal events, finding the perfect dress for any shape and size can be a time suck. You have to find something appropriate, something that fits your body not too snug or too big, and something you feel most like yourself in.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> </span>Oy! The 'joys' of being a woman.<br />
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Here are my tips for Fancy Fashions for a Curvy Girl:<br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Rule #1:</span> This rule contradicts <u>everything</u> I believe in shopping & Curvy-dom, but it's a must in Formal/Wedding Wear. Do <i>NOT</i> have an idea of a dress silhouette (yes, you're going to be at the mall for a while). It's good to have a general look or color scheme in mind, but every Strapless, Mermaid, and Halter gown is cut differently. There are some silhouettes made for Curvy Girls (cue: <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/04/midis-are-not-your-moms-work-attire.html">Midi's Are Not Your Mom's Work Attire</a> & <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/02/slick-splits.html">Slick Splits</a>), but you <i>will</i> get discouraged quickly if you stick to one category, and miss out on great styles that can compliment you <b>just</b> as well! </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Know your measurements (Kudos to Brittany!). If you are online shopping, you'll have to look at a size chart (avoiding buying two sizes if possible because shipping/return costs are not on our side). Don't forget to add an inch! We're going for classy-- not skin tight, Girls ;)</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Don't be afraid of color - <i>any</i> color! I know it's Summer and you're supposed to be bright, but 'Fall' colors are actually a part of the year round uniform. Maroon, Navy, & Black are classic and they aren't going anywhere, so you might as well embrace them-- even when the sun is out.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Cutouts are your friend! As on trend as they are, Cutouts are a Curvy Girl's saving grace. They give you the opportunity to show some more skin in more appropriate ways (i.e. back, sides, or shoulder peek-a-boos), while still having a modest length and neckline.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Last but not least - know what's in your Lingerie repertoire. <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/">Refinery 29</a> did a great piece on <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/bras-for-cutout-dresses">5 Tricky Dresses And What To Wear Under Them</a>. Strapless bras are a solution, but there are many more!</span></li>
</ul>
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My dear Brittany, here are my picks for you:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vINvoLs2aJw/T_ue5nHEHbI/AAAAAAAAAxE/rJQHmFGP7zM/s1600/ML+Monique+Lhuillier+Bridesmaids.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vINvoLs2aJw/T_ue5nHEHbI/AAAAAAAAAxE/rJQHmFGP7zM/s400/ML+Monique+Lhuillier+Bridesmaids.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/ml-monique-lhuillier-bridesmaids-lace-illusion-sheath-dress-nordstrom-exclusive/3274945?origin=category">Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Lace Illusion Sheath Dress</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJLY4sOu_Mw/T_uf1SsbaAI/AAAAAAAAAxM/AnFusWmsaaU/s1600/ML+Monique+Lhuillier.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJLY4sOu_Mw/T_uf1SsbaAI/AAAAAAAAAxM/AnFusWmsaaU/s400/ML+Monique+Lhuillier.png" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/ml-monique-lhuillier-bridesmaid-ruched-cationic-chiffon-dress-nordstrom-exclusive/3206882?origin=category&BaseUrl=Bridesmaid">Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaid Ruched Cationic Chiffon Dress</a><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYjZ4gIU9Dg/T_ugDzXJozI/AAAAAAAAAxU/_-WvtODpPD0/s1600/Maggy+London2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYjZ4gIU9Dg/T_ugDzXJozI/AAAAAAAAAxU/_-WvtODpPD0/s400/Maggy+London2.png" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/maggy-london-one-shoulder-matte-jersey-dress/3114736?origin=category&BaseUrl=Cocktail"> Maggy London One Shoulder Matte Jersey Dress</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F5syAC7I2dg/T_uhMp6YbiI/AAAAAAAAAxc/xYhlP9Nwar4/s1600/Hybrid+Dress+with+Zipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F5syAC7I2dg/T_uhMp6YbiI/AAAAAAAAAxc/xYhlP9Nwar4/s400/Hybrid+Dress+with+Zipper.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://us.asos.com/Hybrid-Dress-with-Side-Zip-Feature-in-Midi-Length/yapd5/?iid=2315881&cid=15801&Rf-800=-1,98&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Navy&mporgp=L0h5YnJpZC9IeWJyaWQtRHJlc3Mtd2l0aC1TaWRlLVppcC1GZWF0dXJlLWluLU1pZGktTGVuZ3RoL1Byb2Qv">Hybrid Dress with Side Zip Feature in Midi Length</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jDoKwLRVoLE/T_uhmkXaBUI/AAAAAAAAAxs/rhsadio1PrM/s1600/Jessica+Simpson.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jDoKwLRVoLE/T_uhmkXaBUI/AAAAAAAAAxs/rhsadio1PrM/s400/Jessica+Simpson.png" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/js-collections-dress-sleeveless-belted-open-back-evening-gown?ID=662648&CategoryID=5449&LinkType=#fn=SPECIAL_OCCASIONS%3DEvening/Formal%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D102%26ruleId%3D2%26slotId%3D82">JS Collections Dress</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P2VrjjmUuTU/T_uhoGIAjyI/AAAAAAAAAx0/jvSM5Xu1918/s1600/BCBGeneration.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P2VrjjmUuTU/T_uhoGIAjyI/AAAAAAAAAx0/jvSM5Xu1918/s400/BCBGeneration.png" width="171" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/bcbgeneration-dress-one-shoulder-layered-pleated?ID=626481&CategoryID=5449&LinkType=#fn=SPECIAL_OCCASIONS%3DEvening/Formal%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D102%26ruleId%3D2%26slotId%3D86">BCBGeneration One Shoulder Layered Pleated Dress</a></td></tr>
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For more of my pics see <a href="http://pinterest.com/ariannaakg/wedding-dresses-for-a-curvy-girl-brittany/">Brittany's Pinterest board</a>, and if you have any other Formal events this summer, this Curvy Consultant is here to help you :)<br />
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Glad to be back Curvy Girls!<br />
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-TLWAriannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-193950922969752002012-07-09T13:51:00.000-05:002012-07-09T13:51:14.243-05:00Work That Body!Hey Curvy Girls!<br />
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We will be back in full swing this week with blog posts that I am sure you will love :) Hint: think Clothes, Kollections, and Bells that are ringing!<br />
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Until then, here are some truths that I think we could all use a dose of today:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x0dtLNyCDpM/T_snxsJ5eSI/AAAAAAAAAw4/3YiyMT-ua8E/s1600/tumblr_m4c9b5glMZ1rr2r3po4_r1_1280.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x0dtLNyCDpM/T_snxsJ5eSI/AAAAAAAAAw4/3YiyMT-ua8E/s320/tumblr_m4c9b5glMZ1rr2r3po4_r1_1280.png" width="251" /></a></div>
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-TLW</div>
<br />Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-5967481591157071702012-06-28T13:24:00.000-05:002012-06-28T13:26:26.062-05:00Kelly Cutrone's Do's & Don'ts From The Summer WIll Shock YouIt's Thursday, which means 1 more day 'til the weekend (we made it!), and 5 more days until Independence Day. While we're in the thick of Summer Style and some of us in 101 degree heat, what better way to find the perfect holiday outfit than tips for this <i>Haute</i> weather.<br />
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PR Maven and overall Fashion Genius, Kelly Cutrone, stopped to chat with <a href="http://www.marlothomas.com/">Marlo Thomas</a> for her "Do's and Don'ts" this Summer. 25 pro's and faux - pas made her <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/27/kelly-cutrones-summer-fashion-advice_n_1632336.html#slide=more235443">list</a>. Check out my top 4 - do you agree with Kelly?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zy4xRW6jm08/T-yeuWu-yfI/AAAAAAAAAv8/RqRljZXd7Jk/s1600/slide_235443_1153458_free.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="line-height: 16px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zy4xRW6jm08/T-yeuWu-yfI/AAAAAAAAAv8/RqRljZXd7Jk/s400/slide_235443_1153458_free.jpeg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">"</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Do wear all of the wonderful 1920's and 1930's clothes that are out now. This trending style is a nod to Gatsby and Fitzgerald. Think sleek and silky in bias cut gowns, bejeweled multi chain necklaces and headbands, wide leg trousers and drop waist dresses"<br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8juVt2IUS-A/T-ye_zGwdwI/AAAAAAAAAwE/j0lgl64zBZU/s1600/slide_235443_1153558_free.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8juVt2IUS-A/T-ye_zGwdwI/AAAAAAAAAwE/j0lgl64zBZU/s320/slide_235443_1153558_free.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Do not wear neon. Not this season, not next, not ever. Accessories are the only exception to this rule."</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-auyUZ1O1-1k/T-yfQqUTr_I/AAAAAAAAAwM/sgaw1wlQ3mY/s1600/slide_235443_1153873_free.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-auyUZ1O1-1k/T-yfQqUTr_I/AAAAAAAAAwM/sgaw1wlQ3mY/s400/slide_235443_1153873_free.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Don't spend over $15 on flip flops. EVER.<br /><br /></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L3HNjI8mdTw/T-yf3MJlsAI/AAAAAAAAAwc/djINBtW8jG4/s1600/slide_235443_1153963_free.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: magenta;"><b><img border="0" height="288" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L3HNjI8mdTw/T-yf3MJlsAI/AAAAAAAAAwc/djINBtW8jG4/s400/slide_235443_1153963_free.jpeg" width="400" /></b></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: magenta; font-size: small;"><b>"Do celebrate your curves with a vintage inspired bikini. Can you say 'Hello, Annette Funicello!?'"</b></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Huffington Post</span><br />
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-TLWAriannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-76142367827453438812012-06-21T15:00:00.001-05:002012-06-21T15:00:13.007-05:00Skinny Girls Vs Curvy Girls: Is This Really A Fight?I recently discovered an article written by <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/sabrinacrockett">Sabrina Crockett</a> : <a href="http://thegloss.com/beauty/why-is-it-suddenly-cool-to-hate-on-skinny-girls-783/">Why Is It Suddenly Cool To Hate On Skinny Girls?</a> and let me just say, it is <i>not</i>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It isn't and never will be.</td></tr>
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The message I will continue to reiterate on <a href="http://www.havethelastword.blogspot.com/">The Last Word</a>, is that this is a forum to celebrate <b>Curvy</b> women like myself and all my readers. The beauty in this also, is that there isn't room to hate. By celebrating our <b>Curves</b> and the things that individualize us and no longer place all <b>Curvy</b> women in a category with negative connotations, is not the opportunity to put down those who do not identify with us. I believe Ms. Crockett agrees. In her article she states:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCpIVYFAUmY/T-N4wNnabbI/AAAAAAAAAvY/QA-DAUyTL5k/s1600/quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCpIVYFAUmY/T-N4wNnabbI/AAAAAAAAAvY/QA-DAUyTL5k/s400/quote.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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..and I could not support her belief more. Plainly speaking, this isn't a "the oppressed becomes the oppressor" situation. Being <b>Curvy</b> in society is about a trend in loving yourself more and appreciating the value within, but at it's core it is indeed a <i>trend.</i> It is our responsibility to love ourselves, not society's, and if they turn on the drop of the dime not only do we look foolish by ridiculing others, but we are also continuing to be disrespectful to our fellow Woman. We're all Women here!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope!<br /><br /></td></tr>
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Sabrina even goes on to talk about this meme, that I am sure a few of us have favortited on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/">Twitter</a> or repinned on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s2IBl2r7VrI/T-N6jEJoBbI/AAAAAAAAAvo/BEZJZY7Dggc/s1600/fuck-society-this-is-more-attractive-than-this.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s2IBl2r7VrI/T-N6jEJoBbI/AAAAAAAAAvo/BEZJZY7Dggc/s400/fuck-society-this-is-more-attractive-than-this.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And in the context of this article, I discovered how unfortunate this message is. Sabrina goes on to talk about the weight battle some <b>Skinny</b> girls may face in devotion to their own perfect body image, and the celebration of curves could hinder their own self appreciation. <b>Curvy</b> women, I <u>know</u> this is not what we are about.<br />
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I <strike>went on a rant</strike> say all this to say I will continue to celebrate my <b>Curves</b> every chance I get, but I will <i>not</i> do it at the expense of someone else's well being. And neither should you! I think Sabrina agrees with me because:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r1K7iq0xEpI/T-N7Mb-k4iI/AAAAAAAAAvw/-bR6ftWmVzM/s1600/curvy+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="46" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r1K7iq0xEpI/T-N7Mb-k4iI/AAAAAAAAAvw/-bR6ftWmVzM/s400/curvy+quote.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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-The Last Word<br />
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Photo Credit: <a href="http://thegloss.com/beauty/why-is-it-suddenly-cool-to-hate-on-skinny-girls-783/" style="background-color: white;">Why Is It Suddenly Cool To Hate On Skinny Girls?</a><span style="background-color: white;"> </span>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-26769712164166745712012-06-14T13:43:00.001-05:002012-06-14T13:44:09.951-05:00These Collars Ain't No ChokeSo remember when I did this post?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-370zFjmjIYU/T9oWZiTXlRI/AAAAAAAAAts/M8_ZyYtbbAY/s1600/TLW.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-370zFjmjIYU/T9oWZiTXlRI/AAAAAAAAAts/M8_ZyYtbbAY/s400/TLW.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/04/meet-arianna-designer.html">The Last Word</a></td></tr>
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And then I made these?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eV-ObQIrK-w/T9oWjS46Y3I/AAAAAAAAAt8/-YuudDTWWY0/s1600/bow+tie.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="331" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eV-ObQIrK-w/T9oWjS46Y3I/AAAAAAAAAt8/-YuudDTWWY0/s400/bow+tie.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assta Designs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assata Designs</td></tr>
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Well check out July's issue of <a href="http://www.instyle.com/instyle">InStyle Magazine</a>:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--2-AY9wIt5k/T9oXrv2otmI/AAAAAAAAAuM/gtxw8VIx0ck/s1600/Collar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--2-AY9wIt5k/T9oXrv2otmI/AAAAAAAAAuM/gtxw8VIx0ck/s640/Collar.png" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">InStyle Magazine July 2011</td></tr>
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We are officially ahead (or neck, if you will) of the curve! I know some of you were a little bit timid in seeing this trend come alive. It <i>is </i>extreme menswear and how to wear it may be a bit of an obstacle that you aren't ready to tackle, but get ready because it seems these <b>collars </b>are here to stay.<br />
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<b><i>Take it to the Neck:</i></b><br />
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<li>You do not, do <b>not</b> have to wear a <b>collared</b> shirt to pull of this look. In fact it would look better without one! You'll be adding another layer of grace to your almost complete ensemble, and it could also go along with your <b>statement necklace</b> for the day like Kristen Bell (above) did.</li>
<li>There are no color limitations or restrictions with this trend. <b>Collars </b>are supposed to pop, (full of the neck jokes today) so make them! </li>
<li>Similar to #1, your neckline isn't decided by the collar or shirt you pair it with. Have fun with tanks, tees, blouses, or strapless - if you dare. </li>
<li>Last but not least for us <b>Curvy</b> girls - I know you may be worried this style will draw unnecessary attention upstairs, and you may feel unbalanced in the rest of your outfit. Not even close! Collars are a statement, just like a belt, or a necklace, or printed shoes. They are an accessory and as long as you don't do the Arm Candy effect around your neck, you will be just fine with this trend. :)</li>
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Although I do professionally make these <b>Collars</b> (you can <a href="mailto:assatadesigns@gmail.com)">email</a> me), I won't be offended if you go another route. There are many talented artists who have taken this simple element to another level. See below:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ROTQVtNSip4/T9oqVjafGwI/AAAAAAAAAuY/qvWcBPjijMg/s1600/gojane_2215_2044001587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ROTQVtNSip4/T9oqVjafGwI/AAAAAAAAAuY/qvWcBPjijMg/s400/gojane_2215_2044001587.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gojane.com/68445-stuff-scalloped-sequin-collar-necklace.html?campaign=googlebase&gclid=CP7b2pebzrACFQoDQAodHCmjMg">Scalloped Sequin Collar Necklace</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-buZMm_95OEQ/T9oqr9HzMKI/AAAAAAAAAug/QtyqecEk9jc/s1600/83316718-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-buZMm_95OEQ/T9oqr9HzMKI/AAAAAAAAAug/QtyqecEk9jc/s400/83316718-03.jpg" width="327" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/product/product.aspx?br=f21&category=ACC&productid=1083316718&variantid=">Sparkling Collar Necklace</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Agy0yn9VDQ4/T9orCy0dxzI/AAAAAAAAAuo/yLBWndryFQI/s1600/Collar+Necklace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Agy0yn9VDQ4/T9orCy0dxzI/AAAAAAAAAuo/yLBWndryFQI/s400/Collar+Necklace.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/inc-international-concepts-necklace-gold-tone-collar-necklace?ID=658731&cm_mmc=Google_Feed_pla_pe-_-adtype-pla-_-target-19586772875-_-kw-&gclid=CIzCrZubzrACFeEDQAod9FI7MQ">INC Collar Necklace</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jGIeowuUcQw/T9orY9TC_xI/AAAAAAAAAuw/KhqjvEqxNmI/s1600/HMblousenecklace4+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jGIeowuUcQw/T9orY9TC_xI/AAAAAAAAAuw/KhqjvEqxNmI/s400/HMblousenecklace4+(1).jpg" width="381" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">H &M Collar Necklace - <span style="color: red;">On Sale Now!</span></td></tr>
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And my personal favorite:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_g9u98dkN6M/T9oryKsYk3I/AAAAAAAAAu4/blFBXlWg7CI/s1600/Dannijo+COllar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_g9u98dkN6M/T9oryKsYk3I/AAAAAAAAAu4/blFBXlWg7CI/s400/Dannijo+COllar.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Dannijo</b> Collar Necklace</td></tr>
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What do you guys think? Can Girls do one <i>more </i>thing better than Men? I think I did:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OOTD: I am wearing, Gap Blouse, Forever 21 Maxi, Vintage Belt, Go Jane Necklace</td></tr>
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Leave your comments below in <b>The Last Word!</b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: <a href="http://www.trenddelacreme.com/2011/08/trending-shirt-collar-necklaces.html">Trend De La Creme</a>, <a href="http://www.buynowbloglater.com/2012/03/h-metal-collar.html">Buy Now Blog Later</a>, GoJane, Forever21, Macy's</span></b></div>
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-TLW!</div>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-27189561166402363432012-06-11T09:23:00.000-05:002012-06-11T09:24:06.953-05:00The Sock Bun RedoneLet me preface this post by saying I do not hate the Sock Bun. I LOVE the Sock Bun. I would even live for the Sock Bun <i>if</i>, I could do it.<br />
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This post is for all the gals like me who have spent time and energy to create the perfect 'do, only to wind up with holy socks, a high count of bun rollers, and hair NOT in a bun.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish.</td></tr>
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I can't do the Sock Bun to save my life and I finally gave up trying. It's such a beautiful style. It's regal, my hair is up and out of my way, and it's HUGE- just like a bun should be. Then I thought about it--all these elements can be achieved in many other ways! So forget this style. I don't give a <b>sock. </b>I'm doing big hair in an updo my own way and here's how:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The Top Knot</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-27Z3aYuEql4/T9J0CpEQ9RI/AAAAAAAAAs0/jVgzPoPmsM4/s1600/250653535481013763_9ikDZO5s_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-27Z3aYuEql4/T9J0CpEQ9RI/AAAAAAAAAs0/jVgzPoPmsM4/s640/250653535481013763_9ikDZO5s_b.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The Bun Braid:</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yClT0kl6j60/T9J0WWfrLCI/AAAAAAAAAs8/N6iqg3LnwcY/s1600/asfd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yClT0kl6j60/T9J0WWfrLCI/AAAAAAAAAs8/N6iqg3LnwcY/s320/asfd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ut72eX579gE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The High Bun with A Twist</span></b><br />
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And if you're just done with the bun altogether, (I don't blame you) check out these high style alternatives:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P046o5j6uOw/T9X8n9sNslI/AAAAAAAAAtI/SFMZrNZs9Gg/s1600/scenscienece-updo-hairstyles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P046o5j6uOw/T9X8n9sNslI/AAAAAAAAAtI/SFMZrNZs9Gg/s320/scenscienece-updo-hairstyles.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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French Bouffant Roll</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HHNMy7l4DM4/T9X8ompRoaI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/odgQq5eZbEg/s1600/updo-hair-styles-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HHNMy7l4DM4/T9X8ompRoaI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/odgQq5eZbEg/s320/updo-hair-styles-03.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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Modern Milk Maiden</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-kmW4XrS_0/T9X8pJFeQYI/AAAAAAAAAtY/L3gLx9NXfSM/s1600/updo-hairstyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-kmW4XrS_0/T9X8pJFeQYI/AAAAAAAAAtY/L3gLx9NXfSM/s320/updo-hairstyle.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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The Peacock </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oVD47wYetho/T9X8yBJhgrI/AAAAAAAAAtg/6cciMubo-QQ/s1600/french-hairstyles-ideas-259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oVD47wYetho/T9X8yBJhgrI/AAAAAAAAAtg/6cciMubo-QQ/s320/french-hairstyles-ideas-259.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
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The Braid-Hawk</div>
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Don't limit yourself. Hair can go up in all kinds of ways and just because you can't grasp the mastery of a trick with accessories intended for your feet, doesn't mean you can't pull off a Chignon of your very own. :)<br />
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Show me your style! Leave a comment or <a href="mailto:thelastwordgirls@gmail.com">send me </a>your own version of the up do to showcase here, on <b><i>The Last Word.</i></b><br />
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Happy Monday!<br />
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-TLW<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: johorbahru.olx.com, Made-in-china.com, SnapItGuide.com, <a href="http://pinterest.com/benchprep/">BenchPrep Pinterest</a>, <a href="http://hairstylesfor2012.blogspot.com/">Hairstyles For 2012</a> <a href="http://www.hairstylefreepictures.com/">Hairstyle Free</a></span>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2283639347882039956.post-30940001395240204462012-06-06T09:12:00.000-05:002012-06-06T09:12:44.591-05:00Don't Spend Eternity In Forever 21: A Shopper's GuideHey Girl Hey!<br />
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So we've talked about how to <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/01/pleats-please.html">Style</a>, <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/02/cerulean-cobalt-indigooh-my.html">Runway Trends</a>, and <a href="http://havethelastword.blogspot.com/2012/03/sunkissed-summer-glow-in-3-easy-steps.html">Cosmetics</a>, but we need to address is the foundation of all possessions: <b>Shopping</b>! Especially shopping at the Insta-Fashion Mecca:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJ9uQkqn9UM/T87Um5pXfMI/AAAAAAAAAsg/MaXnCTcwfIo/s1600/Forever-21-Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJ9uQkqn9UM/T87Um5pXfMI/AAAAAAAAAsg/MaXnCTcwfIo/s320/Forever-21-Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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They have everything from Prom Dresses to Cuticle Trimmers and honestly, walking in the door of a multilevel retailer can scare off the most fearless of us <b>Curvy Girls</b>. So, this post is my ode to all the women who have spent 2+ hours on the shopping floor only to walk away with one garment, if anything at all. It's pretty simple, straight to the point, and I promise you will never lallygag again.</div>
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<b><u>1. Know Your Retailer. </u></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lRitgHmiXTs/T87MaWGqx0I/AAAAAAAAArw/J5Hont7Hk4U/s1600/forever-21-store.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lRitgHmiXTs/T87MaWGqx0I/AAAAAAAAArw/J5Hont7Hk4U/s320/forever-21-store.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Forever 21 can be shopped both <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Main.aspx?br=f21">online</a> and <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Store/StoreLocator.aspx?br=f21">in store</a>. <b>Fun Fact</b>: I have <strike>from sales associates </strike> on good authority that 75% off the items you see online, have already been on the sales floor for <i>weeks.</i> You have the option of finding it via sales associate with the item# a lá Macy's, but you'd be hard pressed to shop the entire store for an online "New Arrival".<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egphlIVmTJw/T87MwdzY4xI/AAAAAAAAAr4/Fde8B7XnCLM/s1600/forever21-accessories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egphlIVmTJw/T87MwdzY4xI/AAAAAAAAAr4/Fde8B7XnCLM/s320/forever21-accessories.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u>2. Know What Your Store Sells.</u></b><br />
For me, there are 4 Chicagoland Forever 21 locations: North Ave, Water Tower, The Shops At North Bridge, and State Street. These 4 are all in different areas of the city, and therefore all have different assortments to appeal to a different shopper. Know which one best suits your needs --> Water Tower = More Everyday Options, The Shops At North Bridge = Accessories GALORE, State Street = Party Attire, so you aren't in the store forever. Which brings me to:<br />
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<b><u>3. Have A LIST.</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QkygyPzsd5o/T87RqvrI_lI/AAAAAAAAAsU/E8aPWUnwQc0/s1600/forever21wishlist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="36" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QkygyPzsd5o/T87RqvrI_lI/AAAAAAAAAsU/E8aPWUnwQc0/s320/forever21wishlist.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I don't mean an itemized grocery list, I mean have a list. Whether it's "I need a purple paisley dress for a dinner party" to, "I need a top cause it's going to be 80 degrees on Saturday", either way you know what you are shopping for and know which section of the store to shop in. Walking blind in Forever 21 can be more hassle than it's worth when you get tired, and their music will ALWAYS be louder than your headphones.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ON5KDx0PzmY/T87OMk-8BCI/AAAAAAAAAsA/FZ1zfZ-6meg/s1600/forever+21+price+tag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ON5KDx0PzmY/T87OMk-8BCI/AAAAAAAAAsA/FZ1zfZ-6meg/s320/forever+21+price+tag.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
<b><u>4. You See That Dress for $6.50 ? So Does Everyone Else.</u></b><br />
I do the running man- live and in store when I find a great deal, but Forever 21 will <i>forever </i>have the under $10 items that seem too good too be true; it's because they are! These items aren't your friend for several reasons: the cheaper items are highly massed produced. They're made fast, in multiples, and not so great fit-wise. Most importantly, you aren't the only one who saw the price tag which means everyone you know will pop up wearing that piece. Believe me, there are diamonds in the rough, but someone you met at a party or went to College with will wear that "bargain" in a profile picture on Facebook.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLYX8DKSNDQ/T87OoEp0mnI/AAAAAAAAAsI/8DMRIhqUsck/s1600/Forever21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLYX8DKSNDQ/T87OoEp0mnI/AAAAAAAAAsI/8DMRIhqUsck/s320/Forever21.jpg" width="262" /></a><br />
<b><u>5. Try On The Really Cute Dress.</u></b><br />
You know, the ones that are in the $22.80 or more range. Mostly because the higher priced garments are made with care & better silhouettes. That also means you'll probably need a size smaller than you think due to this attention to detail. Review the final cut at the end of this step and you are finally ready to check out!<br />
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I know, all of this sounds like the rantings of a Shopaholic. That's true, but so is everything else in this blog post! All of these tips have helped me ESPECIALLY when a girlfriend calls last minute to go to a really cool event, and I only have 30 minutes to shop. It <i>is </i>possible! And Curvy Girl S/O: Forever 21 has a line made for <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=plus&category=faith_main">us</a>, and <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=love21&category=love21_main">Love 21</a> - the newer contemporary line with a more forgiving size chart.<br />
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Obviously these can be used for any mass or big box retailer of your liking. The point: go with a mission because aimless shopping with Techno Pop blaring in the background is not for the feint of heart.<br />
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Happy Hump Day!<br />
-TLW<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Forever21.com, JenKakio.com, TeenVogue.com, Valverdestyle.com, fromgenevawithlove.tumblr.com</span>Ariannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03357366860266378379noreply@blogger.com1